Boston-Ottawa game postponed in wake of Boston Marathon explosions

An NHL source has informed SI.com that tonight's game between the Boston Bruins and Ottawa Senators has been postponed. There is no information at the moment regarding when the game might be rescheduled.

The decision was made by the league after discussions with the teams and the city of Boston in response to the tragedy at the Boston Marathon this afternoon. The league says it "wishes to express its sympathy to all affected by the tragic events that took place in Boston earlier this afternoon."

Ottawa Senators GM Bryan Murray released a statement this evening. "The thoughts and prayers of the entire Ottawa Senators organization are with those people affected by today's tragic events in Boston. We fully support the National Hockey League's decision to postpone tonight's game. Our entire team is safe and together. If possible, we are hoping to return to Ottawa this evening."

While it is an insignificant concern at the moment, rescheduling the game won't be easy given the already compacted nature of the NHL calendar. The Bruins had their Feb. 9 game against the Lightning postponed due to a weather-related emergency. That game was rescheduled for April 25.

The Bruins are playing every other night between now and the season's end, meaning another rescheduled game could require a stretch of three games in three nights. The Senators play on Boston's off nights through April 23, meaning there are three apparent dates available: April 24, 26 or 28. The TD Garden appears to be open on all three of those nights.